Prosthodontic Care
Implant-Supported Restorations
Crowns, bridges and dentures that attach to dental implants can replace missing teeth with a stable, natural-looking result, planned around your mouth and your health.
Prosthodontic care at West End Dental Centre is provided by our general dentist team. Our dentists are not licensed specialists in prosthodontics.
What is an implant-supported restoration?
A dental implant is a small post that sits in the jawbone where a tooth root used to be. On its own, an implant is only the foundation. The part you see and chew with is the restoration: a crown, a bridge, or a denture that connects to the implant through a small connector called an abutment.
Our general dentist team focuses on planning and restoring implants, which means designing and fitting the teeth that sit on top. Depending on your case, the surgical placement of the implant itself may be completed by another provider through a referral. At your consultation, your dentist will explain who handles each step so you know what to expect from start to finish.
Types of implant restorations
The right restoration depends on how many teeth are missing, the condition of the surrounding teeth and gums, and your goals. Options your dentist may discuss include:
- A single implant crown to replace one missing tooth without reshaping the neighbouring teeth
- An implant-supported bridge, where two or more implants hold a row of replacement teeth
- An implant-retained denture that clips onto implants for more stability than a conventional denture
- Replacing or updating an older implant crown that has chipped, worn or loosened
How the process works
Implant treatment happens in stages over several months. A typical path looks like this:
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Consultation and assessment
Your dentist reviews your health history, examines your teeth and gums, and takes digital X-rays to see whether an implant may be suitable. Alternatives such as bridges or dentures are discussed too.
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Implant placement
The implant is placed in the jawbone. Depending on your case, this step may be completed by another provider through a referral.
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Healing
The bone needs time to bond with the implant before it can carry chewing forces. Your dentist will explain the expected healing time for your situation.
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Records and design
Once the implant has healed, impressions are taken so the crown, bridge or denture can be made to fit your bite and match your smile.
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Fitting and follow-up
The restoration is attached, your bite is checked and adjusted, and follow-up visits confirm everything is comfortable.
Caring for an implant restoration
Implant crowns cannot get cavities, but the gum and bone around an implant can still become inflamed if plaque builds up. Brushing twice a day, cleaning around the implant with floss or small brushes, and keeping up with regular cleanings and exams all help protect it.
If you clench or grind your teeth, your dentist may recommend a custom night guard to reduce the forces on your restoration.
Is an implant restoration right for you?
Many adults with missing teeth may be candidates, but suitability depends on factors such as the amount of bone available, the health of your gums, smoking, and certain medical conditions or medications. Some patients need gum treatment or other care first.
If an implant is not the best fit, a porcelain bridge or denture may be a good alternative.
Only a dental examination and X-rays can confirm whether an implant-supported restoration is suitable for you.
Prosthodontic Care
Ask us about implant restorations
Call 780-944-2828 or book an appointment online.